Panama City Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 177,125 and a calculated risk score of 96.0, Panama City faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Panama City, FL. The community in Panama City is tight-knit and spirited. But being prepared means knowing what could go wrong. Historical data suggests a pattern of lightning activity.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Panama City sits at a Risk Score of 95.982. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Lightning and Hurricane.
Top Hazards for The Panama City Area
For residents of Florida, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of lightning activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 99.1/100, requiring attention. For new residents, understanding the severity of lightning in their specific zip code is vital.
Within the specific ecosystem of Florida, hurricane frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 98.7/100. Residents in low-lying zones should have evacuation routes mapped out well in advance.
Long-standing weather records for Florida indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter river flooding. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 94.9. Heavy rainfall events can quickly overwhelm local drainage, making situational awareness key.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Panama City? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Panama City
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Panama City. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 2Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 3Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 4Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
- 5Establish a family communication plan for when cell towers are down.
Essential Gear for Panama City
Water
COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon Container with Spigot
A solid middle-ground option with a built-in spigot. Good for camping or countertop use.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
The best insurance against Lightning is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Miami | 99.7 | When compared to Miami, Panama City is statistically safer. The difference of 3.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Tampa | 99.3 | When compared to Tampa, Panama City is statistically safer. The difference of 3.4 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Orlando | 97.8 | Orlando and Panama City share similar regional risks, but our data gives Panama City the edge in overall safety. |
| Jacksonville | 96.7 | Choosing between Panama City and Jacksonville? Panama City presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Cape Coral | 99.2 | Cape Coral and Panama City share similar regional risks, but our data gives Panama City the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Panama City?
With a risk score of 99.1 for Lightning, Panama City is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Lightning events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Panama City safer than other cities in Florida?
It varies by hazard. While Panama City has its own risk profile (Total Score: 96.0), it is among the higher-risk areas in Florida. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Panama City given the risk of Hurricane?
Every city has risks. The threat of Hurricane (Score: 98.7) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Panama City is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Panama City compare to other cities in Florida?
See the full Florida Disaster Rankings to see how Panama City stacks up against other cities in the state.